Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by BFSLTeam BFSLTeam
The UIDAI or the Unique Identification Authority of India, has the role of issuing a distinct 12-digit number, the Aadhaar number, to every Indian citizen. This body acts on the behest of the Government of India, and the Aadhaar number, held by an Aadhaar card, is every Indian citizen’s proof of residence and identity. It is a widely accepted document for the purposes of gaining access to many services and products, including bank accounts, government schemes, etc., in the Indian ecosystem. Furthermore, when your PAN card and Aadhaar are linked, you can easily file your income tax returns as well.
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The Importance of Aadhaar Card
Indian adults and children are eligible to apply for and have Aadhaar cards, and it is recommended that every Indian should have one. The process may be a lengthy one, but once you have an Aadhaar card, it acts as your enabler for many future necessary procedures. Although the registration for Aadhaar is totally voluntary, most banking, educational, and other institutions and bodies accept it as a form of identity and address proof. What’s more, with a PAN Aadhaar link, it is possible to avail of many facilities both online and offline. Basically, an Aadhaar card makes your life hassle-free and your transactions and procedures streamlined.
Also Read: Link Voter ID with Aadhaar
Basics of the Aadhaar Application/Enrolment Process
The Aadhaar enrolment process is quite simple in India. Here are some highlights of the process to give you a rough idea of what to expect:
- Applying for a new Aadhaar number is free of any cost.
- You must apply for a new Aadhaar card through an official Aadhaar Seva Kendra or an authorised enrolment centre.
- You will need to submit documents showing your identity proof and residence proof.
- Common documents validating your address and identity include your passport, ration card, driving licence, or Voter ID card.
- You may also submit your PAN card or a government identity card as proof of your identity.
- You must also submit passport-size photographs with your application and other documentation.
- You can apply for an Aadhaar card at any Aadhaar enrolment centre. This is a physical application process that you must follow to obtain your new Aadhaar card.
How to Apply for a New Aadhaar Card Online
Technically speaking, you cannot apply for a new Aadhaar card online. The application procedure is largely carried out offline at an Aadhaar enrolment centre. However, you may use certain online processes to find out your enrolment centre online through the Aadhaar website, UIDAI. You may also avail of online services to obtain your Aadhaar application form online, but the application process is conducted offline.
All those Indians applying for an Aadhaar card for the first time must visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre as a person’s biometrics are necessary as part of the application procedure. Nonetheless, once you obtain your new Aadhaar card, you can easily avail of online services like getting a process done. Here are the steps to apply at an enrolment centre:
- You can head over to any Aadhaar enrolment centre. You may book an appointment for your application process online, but this is not mandatory.
- Obtain an Aadhaar application form and fill it out. You may download the form from the official UIDAI portal as well.
- After you have filled out your application form, this has to be submitted to the centre executive along with other documents (validating your identity and your address).
- Once the documents you have submitted are accepted, you may go ahead and provide your biometric information. The executive at your enrolment centre will guide you through the steps to do this. You will be required to submit a scan of your fingerprints and give your iris scan.
- At the end of the application procedure, you will be handed an acknowledgment slip with a 14-digit number of enrolment. This should be kept safely for future reference and to monitor the status of your application. You can do this via the UIDAI website.
- It typically takes up to 3 months to get your Aadhaar card mailed to you at your residence.
- In the meantime, you can easily download an electronic version of your Aadhaar card, the e-Aadhaar, from the UIDAI website with your enrolment number.
Also Read: Open Demat Account Without Aadhaar Card
Final Words
Needless to say, your Aadhaar card is your “free pass” to gain access to a range of financial-related products and services, as well as other official procedures in India. Today, the value of an Aadhaar card cannot be more stressed as this is one document that is accepted at most places, making it possible for you to avail of schemes and other services that may be life changing. Imagine, with just a simple card, linked to your mobile number, bank account, income tax information, etc., it has several uses that come in handy and make your life stress-free. If you do not have an Aadhaar card yet, you must apply for one at the earliest.
